April-May 2023

ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL & CRUISE GUIDE

SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL

The 24th annual Panama City Beach extravaganza hits record early sellout

LINDSEY WEBSTER

The emergence of a brilliant smooth jazz star

REMEMBERING BOBBY CALDWELL

Hit-maker, singer, actor, songwriter leaves a superstar legacy

Angeleno trio brings their party vibe and dynamic vocal interplay to the Seabreeze Jazz Festival

Photo: Erin Blair Studio

APAULO PRODUCTIONS SUMMER EVENTS

Photo Courtesy of the San Diego Symphony

Rebecca Jade Michael Franks RnR featuring Richard Elliot & Rick Braun

featuring Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and Paul Jackson Jr.

Publisher and Managing Editor

Melanie Maxwell

Operations & Distribution Manager

Craig Collier

Copy Editors

JoAnn Armke

Paula Fitzgerald

Barbara Knox

Brad Sondak

Contributor

Ken Capobianco

Graphic Design

Gina Mancini

Contributing Photographers

Josh Adams

Greg Allen

Pat Benter

Jim Clark

Michael Cyra

Describe The Fauna

Erin Blair Studio

Patrick McKenzie

Raj Naik

Chase Pierson

Amy Spangler

Natasha Strombergs

Franco Vogt

Smooth Jazz News

5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134 San Diego, CA 92117

858-541-1919

smoothjazznews@aol.com

www.smoothjazznews.com

We will publish five issues of Smooth Jazz News in 2023: February-March, April-May, June-July, August-September and October-November-December.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher, staff or advertisers. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher.

©2023, Smooth Jazz News | All rights reserved

Smooth-Jazz News/123513291125001

@SmoothJazzNews

CONTENTS

Earl Klugh is hosting his annual Weekend of Jazz at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, April 13-15. For information on this, and other events happening in April and May, check out our calendar section, beginning on page 27.

46 Smooth Jazz News home delivery

today: Online, by mail, over the phone or at our booth during the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April!

47 Smooth Jazz News merchandise Get fashion-ready for festival season with our apparel: classic jazz shirts, fleece jackets, golf shirts, T-shirts, tank tops and hats

Photo: Michael Cyra

A NEW EXPERIENCE COMING SOON!

A LASTING LEGACY

A TRIBUTE TO BOBBY CALDWELL

AUG. 15, 1951-MARCH 14, 2023

Notes from the Publisher by Melanie Maxwell

obby Caldwell, the soulful singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and actor, passed away on March 14, at his home in Great Meadows, New Jersey, after a long illness. He was 71.

Caldwell’s wife, Mary, posted the following statement on his Twitter account (@BobbyCaldwell) on March 15: “Bobby passed away here at home. I held him tight in my arms as he left us. I am forever heartbroken. Thanks to all of you for your many prayers over the years. He had been ‘FLOXED,’ it took his health over the last 6 years and 2 months. Rest with God, my Love.”

Floxed is a term commonly used to describe fluoroquinolone toxicity, a condition when the body suffers mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress due to an adverse effect from a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. As his condition worsened in July 2021, he canceled his tour for the remainder of the year and never performed again.

News of his passing was covered by nearly every television and radio station, magazine and newspaper, from ABC, NBC, CNN and NPR to The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Billboard, USA Today, Variety Magazine and People

Born Robert H. Caldwell on Aug. 15, 1951, in Manhattan, New York, he started his music career at age 17. His popularity soared in the United States and Asia, especially Japan, where he was honored with the “Best Foreign Artist” award at the 1992 Japan Record Awards (Japan’s version of the Grammys).

Caldwell’s influence on fellow artists and musicians, young and old, reached far and wide. Since his 1978 double-platinumselling debut album, What You Won’t Do For Love, was released, Caldwell recorded hit after hit with 19 albums for smooth jazz, pop and R&B audiences. The popularity of that title track led to more than 100 cover recordings and samples by other artists so far. An American classic, it reached No. 1 on Billboard’s rap chart when it was recorded by the late rapper Tupac Shakur on his single “Do For Love,” which went gold.

Go West’s version of the song made No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary (AC) chart in 1995. A rendition of this Caldwell staple was featured on Boyz II Men’s 2005 CD, Throwback. Cover versions, too, were recorded by Peabo Bryson, Dionne Warwick, David Sanborn, Ricky Peterson and the late The Notorious B.I.G. and Natalie Cole, to name a few, selling more than 25 million copies.

Caldwell’s 1980 Cat in the Hat record produced the hit single “Coming Down From Love,” and was certified gold in the U.S. and went platinum in Japan. In 1989, his Heart of Mine album featured the single “In the Name of Love,” showcasing a then-young saxman Dave Koz. In addition, Boz Scaggs’ recording of “Heart of Mine” hit No. 3 on the AC chart.

As a songwriter, Caldwell also penned many songs made famous by other artists. His first big cover tune, “Janet,” became a hit for The Commodores, reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s AC chart in 1985. Other notable Caldwell creations were “All or Nothing at All,” recorded by the late Al Jarreau, “Stay with Me” by Peter Cetera, and “Next Time I Fall,” a duet with Cetera and Amy Grant, which reached No. 1 on the pop and AC charts.

When Caldwell wrote “Stuck on You,” he had Tony Bennett in mind. That title track shot to No. 1 on the smooth jazz/AC charts upon its release in 1992.

After 20 years of chart-topping songwriting and recording accomplishments, Caldwell set his sights on the 1940s big-band era. Those sounds permeated his 1999 album release Come Rain or Come Shine, which flowed easily into his record-buying public.

“I think my fan base has always been a loyal one, and I’m always trying to be loyal to them,” Caldwell explained during a 2000 interview. “The last two albums I did before I made the departure to this, I kind of spoon-fed a couple of songs in some of my albums that were representative of the ’40s. Like a slow process of acclimating everybody to what was imminent. And, not only have I kept that audience, but I’ve multiplied my audience as far as demographics.” Indeed, Caldwell’s music

drew multigenerational fans—grandparents, parents and their children––often swaying together in one audience.

Singing standards versus smooth jazz requires a different use of the voice. “It’s a lyric that can’t be passed over without denoting some emotion,” he said. “These are melodies and lyrics that will be here 100 years from now. There is a timelessness and indelible quality that’s been proven over the decades—the staying power of great American music, like Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer and all the great writers. I feel that it’s up to a certain amount of contemporaries to keep those things alive if they can, and reintroduce new generations to them so they’re not lost.”

For Caldwell, this transition was a much-needed diversion. “It’s representative of the roots I grew up with; my parents were in show business,” he said. “I wanted to carry the torch in some way for some of the greatest pieces of music that have ever been written and probably ever will be written. We’ve all heard synthesizers and drum machines. There’s something to be said about real, real music coming off the stage. And, from a singer’s standpoint, it’s great for singing, too.”

Caldwell and his sister lived with their grandparents in Memphis, Tennessee, while his parents, Robert and Carolyn Caldwell, toured the country, singing on radio and in theaters. His parents hosted one of the first musical variety programs on television called “Suppertime.” Babysitters of the young Caldwell included such family friends as Mel Tormé and Tony Randall. When Caldwell was 4 years old, his father invited him onstage to sing in front of his first live audience. He later learned to play piano, guitar and other instruments, and he eventually got his start playing guitar in the late Little Richard’s band for two years. Motown greats and Earth, Wind & Fire were major influences on Caldwell, but he idolized the late Jimi Hendrix and Frank Sinatra.

This variety of influences and experiences not only made Caldwell comfortable in switching musical genres, but exploring other creative outlets, too.

continued on page 12

“These are melodies and lyrics that will be here 100 years from now. There is a timelessness and indelible quality that’s been proven over the decades—the staying power of great American music, like Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer and all the great writers. I feel that it’s up to a certain amount of contemporaries to keep those things alive if they can, and reintroduce new generations to them so they’re not lost.”

continued from page 11

His success performing standards sparked two surprising and exciting new directions in his constantly evolving career. In 1999, he played “Frank” for several months in the David Cassidy/Don Reo theatrical production “The Rat Pack is Back” at Las Vegas, Nevada’s now-razed Desert Inn. The long-running show was a word-for-word, song-for-song reproduction of the incredible ’50s and ’60s performances by Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.

Although a Sinatra relative initiated legal action to halt the show, the controversy spurred even more interest in it, resulting in nightly sellouts. The legal action was eventually dropped, and the show’s success continued. A few months later, a change of venue brought the musical comedy to the Sahara Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. And, after Caldwell finished that stint, commitments for summer concert dates took him away from the Las Vegas glitz, sending him and his 18-piece big band on the road again.

Caldwell’s renditions of standards from that era led his music to become a powerful presence in numerous films as well. His “Beyond the Sea” was chosen by actor-director Joe Mantegna as the opening theme for his directorial debut, “Lake Boat.” Mantegna also asked the singer to compose the original piece “(Oh, Boy!) You’ve Got it Made” as the closing theme. “Luck be a Lady” was featured in the Vegas-themed “The Cooler,” and his songs have also appeared in “My First Mister” (starring Albert Brooks), “Hearts in Atlantis” (starring Anthony Hopkins), “Simone” (starring Al Pacino) and “The Perfect Man” (starring Hilary Duff).

In a 2005 interview from the New Jersey home he shared with his wife and stepdaughter, he said: “Let’s face it, though. Nobody else is Sinatra. I have studied him, his phrasing, his performances, to the point of stupidity, and I’ve learned it’s all about emoting and living

the song. I’ve done well in films with that material because the Sinatra family won’t let anyone touch his original recordings for less than $250,000 a pop. I come a lot cheaper. But I love it.”

However, what he loved even more were his twin daughters, Lauren and Tessa. “I love them more than anything,” he said in 2000. “I spend all my free time with my kids. I like

for sure, is that there will be more albums.” And there were—eight more.

When we interviewed Caldwell for our February 2005 issue, he had just released Perfect Island Nights, which marked his first all-R&B-pop project since 1995’s Soul Survivor

“I’ve been really fortunate that my fans have come along for this ride, even though I’m sure many are glad I’m back to my old format again with the new album,” he said in 2005. “I felt it was the right time to return to my singersongwriter roots. I wanted to pick up where I left off, and I had a lot of inspiration, which made writing exciting again.”

At the time, he was also heading out on the road to perform several Valentine’s Day concerts appropriately billed “An Evening of Love Songs.”

jumping in the fire—making their breakfast, packing their lunches, getting them off to school, doing their homework with them, reading to them, taking them out to the movies, Legoland, Disneyland and all that stuff.”

During that period, Caldwell lived in Encinitas, a coastal city in San Diego County, California. He was averaging approximately 75 shows a year throughout the U.S. and Asia, which gave him a lot of time off to spend with his children.

Although he had mastered fatherhood, singing, songwriting and performing, Caldwell admitted to wanting to do more acting. “I don’t think I want to make a career out of it. But it’s something I’d like to do,” he said, then added emphatically, “What is

The tour not only coincided with the release of his new CD, but he was still in the honeymoon phase of his marriage to Mary, feeling the freshness of his wedding vows as the couple approached three months of marital bliss. Caldwell described his new bride as a “wonderful woman who is a great partner.” He then all but echoed the lyrics he wrote on the 1986 No. 1 Cetera/Grant hit “The Next Time I Fall,” when he said: “For both of us, this is the last time, it feels very right.”

This set the stage for a very happy and fulfilling period for the rest of his life. “I’ve had a pretty rough life,” Caldwell confided. When asked to expound, he said, “Let’s just say that I can totally relate to just about anything that has happened to anybody, because it’s probably happened to me, too. Everything from being unlucky in love to the entire gamut of what life has to dish out.

“Learning what love really is, and what it means. Being in love and loving somebody are two different things. Being in love is fleeting, and it can only last if love comes into play. And, to love somebody is to accept all that

Covers of Smooth Jazz News featuring Bobby Caldwell in 2005 and 2000

they are and all that they’re not, to act with compassion, forgiveness and understanding.”

All of which he found with Mary. After leaving the San Diego area to share a new life with Mary, her daughter and his daughters on their bucolic little New Jersey horse farm, his new home gave him the stable, happy, loving environment he craved.

This new life allowed him to flourish on the domestic front. “I’ve really had the opportunity to keep reinventing myself,” he said in the 2005 interview. “I keep trying to apply this concept to my cooking, and I’ve really come a long way as a chef. My wife and I do a lot of entertaining, and I have a blast making all sorts of dishes. I’m happy my personal life is on the upswing again, and I can share that also with my fans.”

Caldwell’s fans were as important to him as his perfectionism was to his work. As a performer, Caldwell gave his all. “I’ve always been the kind of person who tries to give a little more on and off stage,” he said in 2000. “It’s really a matter of ingratiating myself to an audience by engaging them in both music and humor. It’s about being able to get up there and explore myself, which is a marked difference from my tendency to be a recluse in my private life. I’m more comfortable onstage than in the recording studio or standing and waiting for a movie. The anti-introvert, I suppose.

“I always spend time with people after the show, and try to talk to everybody, sign an autograph and find out a little bit about them. I make it a point not to bring my problems onto the stage. Because these people bought a ticket, and most of them have bought records … they’re there for one purpose––to be entertained. And, that’s what I do. Even if I’m deathly ill, for that brief 75 or 90 minutes, somehow, I’m able to transcend that and find my place with the music and audience.

“I want the audience to see who I am and feel they can approach me. I spend a lot of time getting to know my fans, both in person and reading these incredible emails, which constantly remind me of the ability music has to touch people’s lives. Bonding

with them is great. I love the intimacy and immediacy of the interaction I have with them, both onstage and off. That’s really the best part of the whole journey.”

Caldwell attributed his longevity to two key elements: giving record buyers their money’s worth on every album and developing skills as an all-around entertainer.

“I try to give 150 percent, and if it ends up being 100 percent because I’m not feeling well, then I’ve accomplished what I wanted to accomplish.”

Mission accomplished, sir.

Caldwell experienced some tumultuous relationships and two divorces before he realized the romantic-happily-ever-after yearning that was expressed in the lyrics he sung for decades. The blue-eyed crooner of soulful love songs spent his final years and days with his true love, Mary. Their partnership is poignantly exemplified in some of the verses of “Show Me Your Devotion,” a duet he recorded with Marilyn Scott and sang frequently in concert—“I still believe in those happy endings … Ooh, darlin’ til the end of time.”

Rest in peace, Bobby Caldwell. You will be greatly missed.

Caldwell is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Beth (Roche) Caldwell; his loving daughters, Lauren Cromer (and husband Charles), Tessa Chapman (and husband Daniel); stepdaughter, Katherine “Katie” Moriarty; his sister, Lisa Caldwell; and two grandsons, Tucker Chapman and Jack Cromer. Caldwell was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Carolyn (Hunter) Caldwell, and his son, Jude Caldwell.

Cochran Funeral Home in Hackettstown, New Jersey, handled Caldwell’s arrangements, which included a visitation on March 20, and a private burial. His obituary, with a condolences page, can be found online at https://cochranfuneral.com/obituary/ caldwell-robert-h/.

For those desiring to show their condolences, the family suggests donations be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607 in memory of Bobby Caldwell.

DAVE KOZ REMEMBERS BOBBY CALDWELL

“I got a call from one of Bobby’s reps to audition for a new band he was putting together. It was the summer of 1986, and I had just graduated college and was a fresh-faced, extremely green 23-year-old sax player looking for a gig. Bobby was the guy who gave me my first shot, having won the audition. Those initial gigs with him (at the legendary, now-defunct, venue At My Place in Santa Monica, California) were such a coming-out party for me. He was so generous sharing the stage, featuring me on practically every song.

It was soon after those shows that Jeff Lorber asked me to audition for his band, and the beginning of my career as an artist began. Bobby did this for so many other young musicians, including Boney James and Michael Lington, just to name a couple. He also invited many of us sax players to join him on various recordings. He was a famous perfectionist in the studio—he always strived to make everything fit just so, musically; and the result is a body of work that will be listened to and appreciated for generations to come.

Likely my sweetest memory of Bobby was his willingness, soon after meeting me, to write a song together for my demo—four songs that I put together on cassette to try and get a record deal. I was so young and unproven. He didn’t have to do that, but in true Bobby fashion, he took some of his precious creative time and invested it in me. That song, ‘Emily,’ co-written with Jeff Lorber, became the centerpiece for my debut album on Capitol Records. And I am convinced that it was the quality of that song that got me signed. I will forever be indebted to that man. On every level.

RIP and thank you for your amazing contribution to our lives, Mr. Bobby Caldwell. You will NEVER be forgotten.”

—Dave Koz

SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL

PRESENTED BY SPANAMA CITY BEACH

Panama City Beach, Florida

April 19-23

By Melanie Maxwell

The Seabreeze Jazz Festival always sells out, but never this quickly. Eight thousand tickets to this Panama City Beach, Florida, spring music and culinary affair were snapped up by Feb. 1.

Reasons for the demand are myriad: the venue, Aaron Bessant Park, is a block from sugar-white sand beaches on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coastline, where most festivalgoers book waterfront accommodations for their stay. There, they wake up each morning to views of glistening green and lapis blue waters, foamy white waves rolling in and out of the shoreline and the sounds of squawking seagulls, often gliding past with an eye-level glance. Plus, the venue features state-of-the-art stage, lighting and sound systems; 10 acres of manicured grassy grounds; paved walkways; and the comfort of plenty of running-water restrooms. However, according to Mark Carter, it’s this year’s lineup that sparked the early interest.

“Our 2023 lineup is definitely our biggest and best ever. Over 30 artists in what we call ‘the dream lineup,’” said Carter, who produces the festival with his wife of 43 years, Renee’. “It’s almost like doing a ‘Greatest Hits of Smooth Jazz’ festival with icons like George Benson, KEM, The Jacksons and Boney James.”

Carter started his artist selection process by booking smooth jazz fan favorites combined with a “dream set” of music. “Like programming a great set of music on the radio,” he said. “Many fans are not aware the thing that makes Seabreeze Jazz Festival different from any other smooth jazz festival is we own and program a 24/7 terrestrial smooth jazz FM radio station all year long, WSBZ-FM 106.3 FM, in Destin, Florida, just west of Panama City Beach. And we have been on the air with smooth jazz for almost 30 years. This gives us a different perspective on how to structure a smooth jazz festival and specifically the lineup,” Carter explained.

To accommodate this expanded artist roster, headliners on Friday and Saturday will perform later than usual—at 10 p.m. “This allowed us to add an additional show to each of those two days,” Carter said. “With the festival starting at noon each day, that’s an incredible amount of talent for the fans to enjoy and a great entertainment

bargain when considering the caliber of top Billboard smooth jazz hit-makers, plus our two Seabreeze Rising Stars showcased on Friday and Saturday evening right before the night’s headliners.”

This means that the after-parties, which are returning to Pompano Joe’s at the adjacent Pier Park mall, will also start later, at midnight, on those nights. With the smooth jazz demographic made up mostly of the baby boomer generation, one might wonder how 50- to 70-year-olds can stay up that late each night and return to the festival grounds when the gates open at 10:30 the next morning.

“You’re as young as you feel, right?” Carter playfully quipped. “Just like on a smooth jazz [themed] cruise, the midnight jam show is offered to keep the party going. When you’re on vacation, you don’t have to stick to the same routine. And the appeal of a nightly after-party with different artists than were seen on the main stage is enticing, especially when it’s in an intimate jazz club setting for 200 concertgoers. Fans usually get their ‘smooth jazz legs’ after the first day.”

Thankfully, there are plenty of food and beverage vendors on the festival grounds to keep patrons nourished and hydrated and possibly remedy a hangover. The festival’s food court always offers

“Our 2023 lineup is definitely our biggest and best ever. Over 30 artists in what we call ‘the dream lineup.’”

—MARK CARTER

MINDI ABAIR

VINCENT INGALA

GEORGE BENSON

PETER WHITE

George Benson

photo: Greg Allen

All other artist photos: Jim Clark

a variety of options, including Gulf Coast cuisine, seafood, hickorysmoked Southern barbecue, New Orleans-style specialties, vegetarian and non-fried items, as well as typical festival fare, desserts, adult beverages, fruit juices and soft drinks.

Although the list of food, beverage, arts, crafts, clothing and jewelry vendors was not finalized as of press time, Carter said the number of food vendors will increase by 25 percent this year. And they will continue with the expanded food court with food trucks, vendor booths and a large dining tent for fans to enjoy their meals, as well as additional bars. “The final list will be available on April 1, when our Seabreeze Jazz Festival mobile app is updated with each vendor, their menu and prices. The show will continue to be ‘cashless’ with the JazzBand,” Carter explained.

The “JazzBand” Carter is referring to is a wristband containing an RFID chip—radiofrequency identification—encoded with each customer’s ticket order and linked to funds electronically loaded with a credit card or cash, which also serves as a “digital wallet” and ticket to the event. This system of currency is the only method of payment permitted for all on-site food, beverage, merchandise and other purchases.

As an additional convenience, the festival’s mobile app, downloadable for free at the Apple and Google app stores, can be used to add funds to wristbands, check balances and past purchases and also to view the festival lineup and

vendor information and locations. In addition, the app links to the festival’s Facebook page, featuring live video during the show and a live year-round link to WSBZ-FM The Seabreeze radio stream.

However, you can’t book your accommodations with your wristband. That must be handled directly with the condo, hotel or vacation rental agency.

In recent years, accommodation availability became so scarce that more had to be built.

“We are seeing what you can call a hotel boom going on in Panama City Beach,” Carter said. “The new Hyatt Place Hotel opened in late 2022 right on the beach near the festival site, along with a new Comfort Inn and Suites at Pier Park. We are also hopeful the new Embassy Suites that was just completed will be open in April. It is located adjacent to Pier Park and is an easy walk to the festival. Plus, it will be the largest full-service hotel in Panama City Beach. A new Residence Inn at Pier Park is also currently under construction and should be open in the spring of 2024.

“Panama City Beach also now has an abundance of condos and vacation rentals available, which, in many aspects, offer more amenities than local hotels do. Panhandle Getaways is our condo and vacation rental sponsor and currently books Calypso Beach Resort and Towers directly across from Pier Park, the No. 1 in-demand condominium by Seabreeze fans due to its beachfront setting and close location to the festival.”

Plentiful places to stay gave jazz fans motivation to attend the festival this year, contributing to the early sellout. But Carter also believes one of the main reasons is: “We’ve seen the appeal of combining a top-class smooth jazz festival with the ultimate beach vacation. Seabreeze is an exciting but relaxing smooth jazz getaway, where the feeling is cool, upscale and refreshing,” he said. “Our location is ideal––close to beaches, shopping, dining, hotels and more.” Plus, the airport is only 10 miles from the venue.

“Smooth jazz is the music that connects us all, and we come together as one big family to enjoy the thing that binds us. Seabreeze is a destination experience, and we hope fans will take in both the beautiful beaches, great restaurants and shopping, deep-sea fishing, championship golf and other attractions.”

Carter recommends that festivalgoers arrive early and stay a couple of days later to see the entire area. He noted

continued on page 16

Photo: ©aricthompson.com

JACKSONS

“Just soak in the Florida sunshine, relax and enjoy the smooth jazz vibe.”

BONEY JAMES

Photo: Describe The Fauna

continued from page 15

whole week—arriving on Monday of the festival week and staying through the following Monday.

“Just soak in the Florida sunshine, relax and enjoy the smooth jazz vibe,” said Carter. “The sound of the surf at your hotel or condo balcony lures/lulls you to sleep, and you awake to the most incredible dream lineup of smooth jazz entertainers––one of our best received lineups in many years.”

LINEUP

Wednesday, April 19

Seabreeze Dinner Cruise featuring Michael Lington, boards at 6:30 p.m., sails at 7 p.m. (sold-out)*

Thursday, April 20

Seabreeze Jazzy Brunch Cruise featuring Peter White boards at 8:30 a.m., sails at 9 a.m. (sold-out)*

*Dining cruises are separately ticketed events aboard the Solaris entertainment yacht, sailing around St. Andrews Bay. Boarding at the Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida.

On festival grounds (gates open at 10:30 a.m.)

WHEN April 19-23, 2023

WHERE Panama City Beach, Florida Festival: Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr. Dining Cruises: Aboard the Solaris entertainment yacht, boards at the Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr. After-Parties at Pier Park: Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road

GETTING THERE

Flights are available into the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The venue is approximately 10 miles from ECP and 55 miles from VPS.

STAYING THERE

Visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com/stay.html for available hotel rooms, condominiums and beach rentals, along with nightly rates and locations

PARKING

General admission parking is free at adjacent Pier Park. All reserved tickets (Gold, Premium and Ultimate Jazz Tables) include on-site parking in a dedicated lot.

TICKETS AND INFORMATION

The 2023 Seabreeze Jazz Festival mainstage performances on the festival grounds and dining cruises are sold-out. However, tickets may be found through a reseller at https://reseller.promotix.com/?q=seabreeze, which Carter said verifies the validity of each wristband.

Tickets to the after-parties at Pompano Joe’s at Pier Park were still available for purchase through the festival’s website as of press time.

Ticket holders will receive wristbands, with embedded RFID technology, in lieu of paper tickets, which is also the digital currency for all festival purchases inside the venue.

For complete Seabreeze Jazz Festival details and more information about the cashless system, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com or call 850-267-3279.

(The 2024 Seabreeze Jazz Festival is scheduled for April 24-28. Tickets go on sale June 1, 2023.)

After-Party featuring Bobby Lyle (separately ticketed event) midnight

Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road

open at 10:30 a.m.) Althea Rene and Jeanette Harris ............................................................

featuring Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and

After-Party featuring Ken Ford (sold-out)

Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road

Sunday, April 23

On festival grounds (gates open at 10:30 a.m.)

Ben Tankard noon

Mindi Abair

p.m.

Special EFX with Chieli Minucci featuring Michael J. Thomas 3:15 p.m. Gerald Albright

After-Party featuring Marcus Anderson (separately ticketed event) 9:30 p.m.

Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road

Photo: Jim Clark

THE INTROSPECTIVE SINGER-SONGWRITER

Lindsey We bster

SPINS A STORY OF ROMANCE WITH REASONS

By Ken Capobianco

Evolve, adapt and grow is a mantra every serious musician learns if they want to have sustained success, including the great ones from Miles Davis to Prince to David Bowie. This is a concept singer-songwriter Lindsey Webster seems to have taken to heart.

With her sixth album, Reasons, released late last year, Webster expanded her musical vocabulary and stretched beyond the intimate, organic jazz found on her earlier albums. Reasons features bolder arrangements and instrumentation, drum programming and hip-hop influences. It’s her richest and most complex effort. On it, she stays honest to her core jazz-R&B vibe while sounding more contemporary and expansive.

The record solidifies the vocalist, who has scored numerous Billboard chart-topping jazz singles over her career. She is one of the most formidable smooth jazz stars to emerge this past decade.

“I wanted to add more elements from different music I like listening to,” Webster said about Reasons recently. “All of our other albums were live band––there were no programmed drums––and we did that here to give an edgier sound while staying true to our own sound. You could say we brought in those elements gently.

“It’s all more about experimenting and doing different things. I want to explore and have fun with it.”

The Woodstock, New York, native and resident is as engaging a conversationalist as she is a vocalist. She’s been a warm and inviting singer throughout her career, and

I never expected to be a singer, but I always wanted to be one. I would be singing along to TV show themes when I was young. I would listen to the radio, and I was that girl with the hairbrush thinking about playing in front of big audiences.

Photo: Franco Vogt

Reasons adds depth and dimension to her music. It intimately explores the complications and nuances of love relationships and desire.

The album was born out of a critical time in her life, marked by emotional turbulence and joy.

“The record was a COVID-era creation––no one knew what was going on during the first few months, and it was a bit hectic, so I wasn’t feeling particularly creative, but I was dating for the first time in awhile,” said Webster, whose former husband, Keith Slattery, is her close musical collaborator.

“If you listen to the songs, they kind of tell a story about that. These relationships came into my life and inspired the songs. The first half is part one of the story that walks you through the different emotions you feel in relationships.

“Even though it’s stuff I went through, most people can relate. That’s important. The songs have to speak to people. I wrote all of them as the things I was experiencing were happening. I’ve never done that before.”

Reasons was the first Webster album to include numerous guests, including multi-instrumentalist Brian Culbertson (who adds trumpet to the vivid “I Didn’t Mean It”), Nathan East, Nicholas Payton, Randy Brecker and Oakland, California-based master of ceremonies Kev Choice.

“They all bring the songs to a different place, and it’s cool to see how their contribution elevates or evolves a song,” Webster effused.

“When I first heard what Nathan did, I thought, ‘How beautiful.’ It was amazing and made the song. We haven’t done a lot of guests on previous records––we did when it was needed––but we did on Reasons because we were thinking, ‘Who can we have here?’ And all these cool people came through to help make it better.”

Webster added that she wants to continue to explore different musical avenues and experiment with production techniques. She even hopes to work with an orchestra someday.

The vocalist has a heavy slate of performances this year with a club tour of her own and a number of jazz festivals, including the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April, as well as the first week of the Dave Koz & Friends at Sea three-voyage, full-ship charter cruises in May. She ends her year at Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Getaway, which has moved to Orlando, Florida.

“I love playing the small clubs, where you can interact with people and look into their eyes, but playing a big stage like Seabreeze is so

exciting and fun. You reach so many different people, and the energy is great,” she said.

“At Seabreeze, we’ll do a more upbeat show––it’s such a large audience––and festival shows are different than what you bring to a club like Blues Alley or any intimate jazz club. That’s a whole different experience.”

All of this is extremely impressive for an artist who was doing open mic nights and singing karaoke a mere 15 years ago.

“I never expected to be a singer, but I always wanted to be one. I would be singing along to TV show themes when I was young. I would listen to the radio, and I was that girl with the hairbrush thinking about playing in front of big audiences,” she said, laughing.

“And my mom had a huge record collection, so there was always music in the house. We had a piano, and my dad could play anything for me. My brother was older than me and had bands in the garage when he was 14.

“My sister loved music, so it was all around. It was a dream for me to sing. The stars just aligned, and my parents were always supportive of what I wanted to do. I have no idea where my voice came from, but I’m grateful that I found it and just kept singing.”

Webster is a big advocate for music education in schools. She said that it played an integral role in her development and devotion to singing.

I love playing the small clubs, where you can interact with people and look into their eyes, but playing a big stage like Seabreeze is so exciting and fun. You reach so many different people, and the energy is great.

Photo: Chase Pierson

continued from page 19

“I went to an elementary school with a music program, which was so important. We have to make sure music programs are available in schools. It’s so big for kids. If I didn’t have that, who knows what would have happened? It’s key for every student to have the kind of opportunity to learn music like I did. We need to expand music programs, not cut them.”

Webster went on to study at the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan, New York.

That education was her foundation, but practice and vast amounts of stage experience formed Webster’s maturation as a vocalist, which is one of the biggest takeaways from Reasons. She’s more expressive, especially on introspective songs that examine emotions.

“I’ve become quicker in the studio and learned better vocal technique––how to do softer parts or the louder––the vocal dynamics,” she explained.

“I’ve just developed so much. Before I recorded the first record [released in 2013], I had no experience in the studio and wasn’t performing that much. Obviously, now I’m playing so many shows, especially on bigger stages; I’ve become more confident.

“I just keep learning more about production, writing and performing. I’m also taking better care of myself, so my voice has gotten stronger.”

Webster loves the outdoors, which seems like a requirement for someone who grew up in Woodstock, the small, wooded community in upstate New York known as a refuge for artists looking to escape city life.

“Running is a big part of my life, and I love to hike,” said Webster.

“I’ve also gotten into more gym workouts, but that’s different than being outdoors. Being out in nature and exercising is part of connecting the body with the mind.

“I find I really have to do that for myself and take the time. Ever since I was a little girl, I was super active. My dad would take us out on walks, and I’d hike. For me, something like running is a huge release.”

As her career gets bigger with every new album, Webster might have to relocate to a major city where the music industry power players and the majority of musicians reside. It’s something she’s contemplated.

“After COVID, I started thinking life is too short,” she said. “Woodstock is so slow-paced. It’s kind of where you go when you retire, which is fine because it’s beautiful and peaceful, but I’ve considered moving to Los Angeles. It’s not off the table, but not now. We’ll see what happens in the future.”

The thoughtful singer-songwriter is grateful for her success, and she is focused on channeling her energies in the right direction to do her best work and maintain her career momentum. She said she makes time to center herself to find an inner stillness.

“I’m a very spiritual person. I think we are all very much connected by something––the universe or whatever you want to call it. God, or what you believe in, but we are connected. I think spiritual and religious beliefs are similar in that a lot of people rely on prayer, but my version of that is meditation and connecting with how I feel and what my body is feeling.”

She paused to gather herself before finishing her thoughts on how she maintains her poise and keeps anxiety at bay.

“Am I feeling something from a place of truth and honesty or am I thinking from a worry perspective? I have to find that clarity. When you shift that energy around, you keep your faith in things on track.

“Prayer for me would be focusing my mind and envisioning what I want. I try to do that a few times a day to stay centered on my goals.

“I do daily meditative check-ins. I do think it’s a miracle that we’re alive on the planet at the same time. It’s incredible––unfathomable. That’s just enough to be grateful for and to know you have an opportunity to do things you believe in.”

For more information on Webster, including her complete tour schedule, visit www.lindseywebstermusic.com.

On tour

APRIL 20

24th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival (sold-out)

Aaron Bessant Park

Panama City Beach, Florida

www.seabreezejazzfestival.com

OCT. 7

Gulf Coast Jazz Festival: Fall Edition Community Maritime Park Pensacola, Florida

www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com

NOV. 10

Jazz Legacy Foundation’s 11th Annual Gala Weekend

Hampton Roads Convention Center

Hampton, Virginia

www.jazzlegacyfoundation.org

DEC. 31

Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Getaway Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel

Orlando, Florida www.floridasmoothjazz.com

Photo: Franco Vogt

ARTHUR THOMPSON

“SMILE” (SINGLE)

(Arthurized Productions)

Arthur Thompson, drummer for the late Wayman Tisdale, has released a new single, “Smile.” The song is a heartfelt expression written about someone very special in his life and it features his dear friend Mindi Abair on saxophone. Thompson also created a video to accompany this release, both of which are available via his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@arthurized64.

AvAilAble At: All streaming platforms, including iTunes, https://cdbaby.com and https://open.spotify.com

Website: www.arthurthompsondrums.com

DARRYL EVAN JONES

“ON THE RUN” SINGLE

(JonesStar Entertainment)

“On The Run” is the first single from Darryl Evan Jones, flutist and Ambassador of Instrumental Soul, off his upcoming album, Resilient. Collaborating with Adam Hawley (co-writer and producer) and Caleb Middleton has created a surefire hit that’ll have you bobbing your head, tapping your feet and clapping your hands!

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.apple.com/apple-music/, https://music.amazon.com/, https://dejmusic.com/ Website: https://dejmusic.com/ and darrylevanjonesjazz.com

PAUL JACKSON, JR.

STOMPIN’ WILLIE PRESENTS MORE STORIES, PART 1 (M and P Music Factory, Inc.)

Stompin’ Willie presents More Stories, Part 1, the new EP from legendary guitarist Paul Jackson, Jr., is out now. It includes the hit single “Love Like This.”

“Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and I were playing at a festival and during sound check, I started playing the guitar part of ‘Love Like This’ by Faith Evans. Jeff said, ‘You need to record that song.’ And, so I did, and featured him on my version. Also featured is my daughter Lindsey on vocals,” Jackson explained.

AvAilAble At: All digital music platforms and www.PaulJacksonJr.com

Website: www.PaulJacksonJr.com

ANDREW NEU • “LEAN INTO IT” SINGLE

(CGN Records)

“Lean Into It” is the new single from saxophonist and composer Andrew Neu. Working with producer Greg Manning, this is a seriously funky track featuring all real musicians. Combining Neu’s love for tight horn sections and Manning’s awesome grooves, the song pulls you in right away with a vibe that makes you bop your head and keeps you smiling!

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.amazon.com, www.spotify.com, https://music.apple.com, www.qobuz.com, and most streaming platforms

Website: www.andrewneu.com

GIL • “NOTHING (LESLIE’S SONG)” SINGLE

(GSJ Records)

With the release of his exhilaratingly upbeat new single, “Nothing (Leslie’s Song),” GIL’s anticipatory hope is that the lady is as head-over-heels in love as he is. The vocalist complements his Luther Vandross-like lovelorn cool with exceptional guitar work from smooth jazz icon Doc Powell.

AvAilAble At: https://ffm.to/gilnothing Website: www.gilsings.com

MARIEA ANTOINETTE • “SO AMAZING” (SINGLE)

(MAH Productions)

Gloriously and sensually making the harp an extremely vibrant and a melodic smooth jazz lead instrument, Mariea Antoinette is now setting our hearts afire with a divine sprinkling of Luther Vandross classic “So Amazing.” Pure joy from start to finish with string melody sweetened with gospel flavored backing vocals.

AvAilAble At: iTunes, https://cdbaby.com, www.apple.com/apple-music/ and all digital platforms

Website: www.marieaantoinette.com

JAZZ -THEMED CRUISES

MAY 1-8, MAY 8-15 and 15-22, 2023

(all sailings are sold-out, waitlist only)

Dave Koz & Friends at Sea

Three, seven-day, full-ship charters

Spain, Morocco, Portugal

Jonathan Butler, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Mindi Abair, Eric Darius, Norman Brown, Peter White, Maysa, Ray Parker Jr., Vincent Ingala, Howard Hewett, Ilya Serov, Javier Colon, Jazmin Ghent, Julian Vaughn, Justin-Lee Schultz, Kayla Waters, Lin Rountree, Lindsey Webster, comedian Loni Love, Marc Antoine, Marcel Anderson, Marcus Anderson, Michael Lington, Rebecca Jade, Sheila E., Matt Cusson, Steve Oliver, Adam Hawley, Adrian Crutchfield, Althea Rene, BK Jackson, The Boneshakers featuring Jenny Langer, Brian Simpson, Chris Walker, John Stoddart and more

: Voyage One, departs from Barcelona, Spain, on May 1; Voyage Two, departs from Lisbon, Portugal, on May 8; Voyage Three, departs from Barcelona, Spain, on May 15

Oosterdam

: Barcelona, Ibiza, Alicante, Seville Spain; Casablanca, Morocco;

: Flights are available into the Barcelona Airport (BCN) for Voyages One and Three; and the Lisbon Airport (LIS) for Voyage Two. Booking and information: www.davekozcruise.com,

Barcelona, Spain

Dave Koz

Ibiza, Spain

APRIL 30-MAY 7 and MAY 7-14, 2024 (both sailings are sold-out, waitlist only)

Dave Koz & Friends at Sea

Two, seven-day, full-ship charters

Greece, Turkey, Israel, Egypt

Lineup: to be announced

Embarkation: Departs from Athens, Greece

Ship: Holland America’s Oosterdam

Ports of call: Ephesus, Turkey; Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, Israel; Cairo, Egypt

Getting there: Flights are available into the Athens International Airport (ATH).

Booking and information: www.davekozcruise.com, 888-471-3313

DEC. 9-16, 2024

Rick Braun’s Christmas Market River Cruise

Seven-day, full-ship charter, Budapest, Hungary, and Nuremberg, Germany

Lineup: Rick Braun with special guest Peter White

Embarkation: Budapest, Hungary. Flights are available into the Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), approximately 30 minutes from the ship’s port.

Ship: AmaWaterways AmaVerde

Ports of call: Budapest, Hungary; Vienna, Austria; Melk, Austria; Passau, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; and Nuremberg, Germany

Booking and information: www.RickBraun.com

Ashdod, Israel

Nuremberg, Germany

Vienna, Austria

Rick Braun

Photo: Raj Naik

Photo: RajNaik

DW3

By Ken Capobianco

ONE OF THE BIGGEST MYTHS IN POPULAR MUSIC

is the overnight success phenomenon. Success for any musician or band is the result of years of work, sweat and perseverance. Sure, overnight sensations occur—especially as a result of social media—but those one-hit wonders vanish faster than Pete Davidson’s relationships.

The burgeoning success of Los Angeles-based smooth jazz-R&Bfunk band DW3 has been more than 20 years in the making, thanks to the trio’s dedication to their craft and spirited performances.

The band, comprised of brothers Eric and Billy Mondragon and Damon Reel, have racked up smooth jazz hit singles from their well-received albums while playing to increasingly larger crowds. They’re scheduled to perform at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach, Florida, on April 22.

None of this could have happened without their devotion to music and tireless work ethic.

“We’ve always expected this because it’s all we’ve ever done,” said Eric Mondragon during a full band interview via phone recently. “We never had day jobs, and come from a family of musicians, and the music is in our blood. I’ve believed what we have achieved and

the smooth jazz community. The popular trio have grown from a Southern California club act to an internationally recognized group playing major smooth jazz cruises and festivals.

“On the Floor was an introduction of DW3 to the world––the vocals, the ambiance, the balance of R&B, smooth jazz and ballads, and then we refined the music that reflected who we are,” said Reel of the band’s development as a studio band.

Photo: Erin Blair Studio

The popular trio have grown from a Southern California club act to an internationally recognized group playing major smooth jazz-themed cruises and festivals

“We’re singers and R&B heavy, and we are juggling the smooth jazz side because smooth jazz is the scene that has embraced us,” added Billy Mondragon, who also plays percussion. “There’s great musical diversity to our music with ballads to party music to groovin’ music.”

The Mondragons, who came of age playing with their family’s band in East Los Angeles, said they were influenced by the Latin music they grew up with and an array of soul and funk groups from the ’70s and ’80s, especially Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder and Luther Vandross.

The blending of these genres is the hallmark of their original music, with an accent on seamless vocals. “My brother and I grew up singing harmonies in multiple different vocal groups, and my mom and dad were both vocalists,” Billy continued.

South Central Los Angeles native Reel comes from a different background, but he studied harmony and sang in quartets before joining the band. The 41-year-old also has different influences, which helps bring a different perspective to the trio.

“I was born in the ’80s, so I was very much into hip-hop of the ’90s. But if you listen to that, you know the West Coast hip-hop sound is rooted in old funk and soul.”

bookings and national touring, the band still plays steadily at the club.

“We’ve been with Spaghettini going on 20 years now,” said Billy. “We have a really great relationship. They funded our first CD, and they funded this one. They have been very involved in our careers, and we value our relationship. It means so much.”

The new record will mix originals from the band’s catalog with choice covers they’ve relied on during their sets.

When they perform at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival this year, it will mark their third appearance at the prestigious fest. Augmenting the trio will be Wallace Walker on drums, Jef Villaluna on guitar, and bassist Steve Carias.

“The first time we played [Seabreeze] it was just us three, and we used the guys who were out there already,” said Eric, who plays keyboards. “The second time was with Richard Elliot and the West Coast Jam. This will be the first time we will be playing with our full band. It’s been a great platform for us and fun to play. We’ve definitely seen a significant jump in our social media following since we’ve played there, and the response has always been great.”

Reel chimed in: “The first time we did it was around 1 o’clock in the afternoon, and the last time we closed the show with

The group has found widespread support within the smooth jazz musical community. Gerald Albright was the first musician to guest on one of their albums, appearing on their hit “I Got You” from On the Floor. Since then, they’ve worked with Dave Koz (on his Grammy-nominated Dave Koz and Friends: Summer Horns), Eric Darius, Brian Culbertson and Boney James, among others.

“Working with Gerald on the first one was the real validation––that was important––and all the other guests that followed really mattered to help put us on the map,” Billy affirmed.

The group said that touring throughout the country has helped broaden their audience and opened people’s eyes. While smooth jazz and Southern California audiences know what to expect from the vital R&B-soul-based trio, others might not be as familiar.

“There’s that element of surprise or mystery. I’ve heard someone say after a show, ‘I thought you were going to play salsa,’” laughed Reel. “The idea of three Latino musicians, people might be thinking, ‘OK, what are they going to do?’ And then we play our show, and people come up afterward and are like, ‘Oh my God, continued on page 26

DW3 are built on the trio’s dynamic vocal interplay, the foundation of their music and versatility

Billy Mondragon

Damon Reel

Eric Mondragon

Photo: Erin Blair Studio

ON TOUR

I didn’t know.’ That’s a testament to our craft. It’s important to us because you don’t want to be misread before you play anything, and then confirm people’s idea of what they expected. But we are obviously different, and our show is the opposite of what people who don’t know us might expect.”

All three musicians are family men. Eric, 50, has three children, and his son now works with them as an engineer (he co-engineered DW3 with Reel), and Reel has four. Both Eric and Reel have grandchildren now, so they are busy when they are not playing shows or recording.

Each member has a studio in his home, and they say they are all gearheads— totally absorbed with music and recording equipment. Reel is also an expert computer tech. “I can build you a computer and break it down. I can program anything,” he said. “I’m the guy who friends and family go to when something breaks down, and I can fix it. That’s how I relax.”

The group members are rabid Los Angeles Lakers and Dodgers fans, and Billy is an avid outdoorsman. He goes camping in his recreational vehicle and enjoys boating. He said he got a taste of the outdoors when he and his brother were taken hunting while growing up.

“My brother and I grew up in a family of hunters. My grandfather was from New Mexico, so they hunted a lot of deer. We also did it in different parts of California. My cousin owns a home in New Mexico, so we go out there. I love camping.

I have Jet Skis. The whole outdoor thing I’m really into,” said 51-year-old Billy.

Unfortunately, tragedy hit the Mondragon family recently when Billy’s wife, Irma, passed away in January.

He said he is not going to take time off from the band and intends to continue while taking care of his family.

“Right now, I’m taking it one day at a time. I have no conclusive answers, but I’m dealing with it the best way I can with my family and my children.

“No matter how much people say you can prepare for something like this, you are never really prepared for it. I have to go on. My daughter is 22, and my son is 20, but my son is autistic with special needs, so I’m taking care of him. There really is no break or time off. I just do the best I can, considering.”

Hopefully, he and the whole Mondragon family can find a measure of consolation in the joy they bring to people, and the love they spread with their high-spirited shows and genuine devotion to life-affirming music.

As Reel aptly said about the band’s journey: “We’ve come so far and worked so hard the last few years. It’s a testament to our work and determination as a band––and us as individuals––to be better and better to others. Music picks me up. I think it does for all of us.”

For more information on DW3, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ dw3music, where they post most of their tour dates. Also, check out their concert dates at Spaghettini, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, where they frequently perform at Sunday Brunch and on Thursday evenings, https://spaghettini.com.

continued from page 25

“We’ve come so far and worked so hard the last few years. It’s a testament to our work and determination as a band ...”

Photo: Erin Blair Studio

Damon Reel

Billy Mondragon

DW3 performing at the 2019 Seabreeze Jazz Festival

Eric Mondragon

Photos: Jim Clark

APRIL

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, Celebrating the Women in Jazz: Take 2 presented by Chris “Big Dog” Davis, featuring Regina Belle, Avery*Sunshine, Maysa, Lori Williams, Karen Briggs, Kayla Waters & Jazmin Ghent, 1pm; Adam Hawley’s West Coast Groove featuring Marcus Anderson, Darren Rahn, Greg Manning, Rebecca Jade, Darryl Williams, Tony Moore & Curtis McCain, 9:30pm, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading, Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Will Donato

with host Al “DJ Act” Taylor, 3:30pm, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading, Cheers Lounge, 701 Penn St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Gerald Veasley’s Unscripted Jam #4 with Tommy Castro, Deanna Bogart, Will Donato, Will Prince, Jazmin Ghent, Lori Williams, Kayla Waters, Karen Briggs, Adam Hawley, Darren Rahn, Greg Manning, Jeff Ryan, Curtis McCain, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller & more, 11:30pm, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading, small ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents Eric Marienthal & the Jazz Cruises All-Stars featuring

CONCERTS AND FESTIVALS

Peter White, Keiko Matsui, Mindi Abair, Randy Brecker, Larry Braggs & Vincent Ingala, 6pm, Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

2

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Finale featuring Boney James, 4pm, Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

6

JJ Sansaverino, 7:30pm, St. James Live, 3220 Butner Road, Atlanta, Georgia, www.stjamesliveatl.com, 404-254-3561

Brian Culbertson The Trilogy Tour, 8pm, The Apollo Theater, 253 W.

125th St., New York, New York, www.brianculbertson.com

DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

7

Eric Darius, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214

Mindi Abair, 6:30 & 9pm; Wine & Jazz Pre-Show Pairing, 4pm, Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, California, www.bluenotenapa.com, 707-880-2300

8

Mindi Abair, 6:30 & 9pm, Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, continued on page 28

www.seabreezejazzfestival.com, 850-267-3279

22

Grown Folks Grooving Spring Fling Jazz II with Marcus Anderson & Joe Brown, 8pm, Knights of Columbus, 1125 Pinetree Dr., New Bern, North Carolina, https://marcusanderson. net, 252-269-2747

24th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival featuring, on the main festival stage, Althea Rene & Jeanette Harris, noon; Jazz Funk Soul with Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp & Paul Jackson Jr., 1:45pm; DW3, 3:30pm; Paul Taylor with Regina Belle, 5:15pm; Norman Brown, 7pm; Nathan Mitchell, 8:45pm; Boney James, 10pm, Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida, www.seabreezejazzfestival.com, 850-267-3279

Will Donato, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

23

24th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival After-Party featuring

Marcus Anderson, 9:30pm, Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida, www.seabreezejazzfestival.com, 850-267-3279

Adrian Crutchfield, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

24

Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guest Lindsey Webster, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

26

Lindsey Webster, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

27

Brian Culbertson The Trilogy Tour, 8pm, Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St., Dallas, Texas, www.brianculbertson.com

continued on page 30

Sunday, June 4 Chris Botti

Saturday, June 10 Boney James

Sunday, June 18 Brian McKnight

Gerald Albright & Jonathan Butler

Saturday, July 15

Peter White, Mindi Abair & Vincent Ingala

Saturday, July 22 Regina Belle & Paul Taylor

Michael Lington & Howard Hewett

Saturday, September 9 Rick Braun & Richard Elliot

Saturday, September 23 Dave Koz Summer Horns Eric Darius & Candy Dulfer

Sunday, September 24 Dave Koz Summer Horns Eric Darius & Candy Dulfer

continued from page 29

DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

28

Jay Rowe presents the 20th anniversary of Smooth Jazz for Scholars benefit concert for the City of Milford, Connecticut, public schools music department featuring Chieli Minucci, Ken Navarro, Nelson Rangell, Marion Meadows, 8pm, Veterans Memorial Auditorium at the Parsons Complex, 70 W. River St., Milford, Connecticut, www.jayrowemusic.com, 203-874-4150

DW3: A Tribute to the Legends of Music, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www. spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

Peabo Bryson, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

Brian Culbertson The Trilogy Tour, 8pm, The Strand Theatre of Shreveport, 619 Louisiana Ave., Shreveport, Louisiana, www.thestrandtheatre.com, 318-226-8555

29

Keiko Matsui, 8pm, Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Dr., Cerritos, California, www.cerritoscenter.com, 562-916-8500

Brian Culbertson The Trilogy Tour, 8pm, Bayou Music Center, 520 Texas Ave., Houston, Texas, www.brianculbertson.com

Jay Rowe presents the 20th anniversary of Smooth Jazz for Scholars benefit concert for the City of Milford, Connecticut, public schools music department featuring Jessy J, Paul Taylor, Kim Waters, JJ Sansaverino, 8pm, Veterans Memorial Auditorium at the Parsons Complex, 70 W. River St., Milford, Connecticut, www.jayrowemusic.com, 203-874-4150

Michael Paulo, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

continued on page 32

Special Occasions

Phaze II

Nathan Mitchell

Jazmin Ghent

Mike Philllips

Najee

Lin Rountree

The Blackbyrds

Marcus Mitchell

Mo’Horns

Eric Roberson

Marcus Anderson

Karen Linette

Frank McComb

Jeff Bradshaw

Julian Vaughn

Kim Scott

Marcus Young

Kevin Howard

Art Sherrod, Jr.

Nicholas Cole

Rebecca Jade

WAR

Pieces of a Dream

Jonathan Butler Marcus Miller Candy Dulfer Vincent

Dauphin County Commissioners

DAUPHIN COUNTY

September 9 - 10

Fort Hunter Park

Harrisburg, PA

continued from page 30

Peabo Bryson, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

30

Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

MAY

4

DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle,

Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

5

Spyro Gyra, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

6

Live from La Costa with Tris Imboden Yacht Stars, 7:30pm, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad, California, www.tix.com/ticketsales/apaulomusic/2914

Nothing But The Sax featuring Dee Lucas, Marqueal Jordan & Tony Exum Jr., 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214

Spyro Gyra, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

7

Kirk Whalum, 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, www.ramsheadonstage.com, 410-268-4545

Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

9

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival Welcome Dinner & Jam Session, 8:45pm, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal,

For more information and to purchase your $50 weekend passes, visit: DauphinCounty.gov

www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@smooth-entertainment.eu

10

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival featuring Paula Atherton, 8:45pm; Gerald Albright, 10:15pm; After-Show Chill, 11:45pm, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal, www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@smooth-entertainment.eu

11

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival, The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves & artist interviews, 3pm; evening concerts featuring Paul Jackson Jr., 8:45pm; Everette Harp & Andy Snitzer, 10:15pm; After-Show Chill, 11:45, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury

Marcus Anderson

Lin Rountree

Julian Vaughn Vincent Ingala SUCH

Nathan Mitchell

Mike Pries | Chad Saylor | George P. Hartwick, III

Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal, www.algarve. smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@ smooth-entertainment.eu

DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

12

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival, The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves & artist interviews, 3pm; evening concerts featuring Jeff Lorber, 8:45pm; Paul Brown & Michael Paulo, 10:15pm; After-Show Chill, 11:45pm, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal, www.algarve. smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@ smooth-entertainment.eu

Najee, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214

Erin Stevenson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

13

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival, morning concerts featuring JJ Sansaverino, 11am; Will Donato, 12:30pm; The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves & artist interviews, 3pm; evening concerts featuring Selina Albright, 8:45pm; Jazz Funk Soul with Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp & Paul Jackson Jr., 10:15pm; After-Show Chill, 11:45pm, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal, www.algarve. smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@ smooth-entertainment.eu

14

6th Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival, morning concerts featuring Ryan La Valette, 11am; The Braxton Brothers, 12:30pm; The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves & artist interviews, 3pm; evening concerts featuring Greg Manning & Jeff Ryan, 8:45pm; Grand Festival Finale, 10:15pm; After-Show Chill, 11:45pm, Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal, www.algarve. smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@ smooth-entertainment.eu

continued on page 34

continued from page 33

Jessy J, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

18

JJ Sansaverino, 8pm, Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, California, www.bluenotenapa.com, 707-880-2300

DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

20

Najee, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Virginia, www.birchmere.com, 703-549-7500

Keiko Matsui, celebrating the new album Euphoria, 6:30 & 9pm, Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, California, www.bluenotenapa.com, 707-880-2300

JJ Sansaverino, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach,

California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

21

Keiko Matsui, celebrating the new album Euphoria, 3 & 6:30pm, Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, California, www.bluenotenapa.com, 707-880-2300

Nathan Mitchell, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

22

Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guest David Benoit, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

26

DW3: A Tribute to the Legends of Music, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

Jazz BruNches

APRIL-MAY

NOTE: Spaghettini offers weekly performances with its Sunday Brunches in the lounge. As of press time, lounge seating was still available for the brunch dates and shows below (all others have sold-out). However, seating in the restaurant’s dining rooms is often available. Please check directly with Spaghettini for brunch reservations at 562-596-2199, or visit www.spaghettini.com.

APRIL 2

32nd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Sunday Jazz Brunch hosted by Michael Tozzi, featuring Brian Simpson, Gerald Veasley, Jackiem Joyner, Jessy J & The Berks Horns; brunch, 10:30am; show, noon, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading, Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com

MAY 7,21,28

Spaghettini’s Legendary Brunch with performances in the lounge by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

NOTE: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of the listings contained in this calendar, events may be postponed or canceled without notice. Artists, events, venues, dates and show times are all subject to change without notice. Smooth Jazz News is not responsible for any cancellations, changes or the accuracy of any concert, festival, cruise or brunch information contained in advertisements and/or editorial published in this magazine, which has been provided by outside sources. Please confirm all information with the organizer directly before making any plans.

AN EXCLUSIVE WINE + JAZZ LIFESTYLE MEMBERSHIP

BY MINDI ABAIR

Exclusive Fine Wines From Top California Regions

Original Musically Inspired Label Artwork

Curated & Paired Music Playlists For Each Wine

Pre-Show VIP Wine Tastings

Travel The World With Us On Our Mindi Abair’s Wine + Jazz Adventures

Algarve, Portugal

Location for the Sixth Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival

2023

- 2024

JAZZ FESTIVALS

YOUR GUIDE TO SMOOTH JAZZ EVENTS

AND EXPERIENCES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE!

~2023~

MAY 9-14

Sixth Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival

Albufeira, Portugal

Lineup:

Tuesday, May 9: Welcome Dinner and Jam Session

Wednesday, May 10: Paula Atherton, 8:45 p.m.; Gerald Albright, 10:15 p.m.; After-Show Chill, midnight

Thursday, May 11: The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews, 3 p.m.; evening concerts featuring Paul Jackson Jr., 8:45 p.m.; Everette Harp and Andy Snitzer, 10:15 p.m.; After-Show Chill, midnight

Friday, May 12: The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews, 3 p.m.; evening concerts featuring Jeff Lorber, 8:45 p.m.; Paul Brown and Michael Paulo, 10:15 p.m.; After-Show Chill, midnight

Location for the 10th Annual Mallorca

Smooth Jazz Festival

See listing on page 43—

Saturday, May 13: Morning concerts featuring JJ Sansaverino, 11 a.m.; Will Donato, 12:30 p.m.; The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews, 3 p.m.; evening concerts featuring Selina Albright, 8:45 p.m.; Jazz Funk Soul featuring Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and Paul Jackson Jr., 10:15 p.m.; After-Show Chill, midnight

Sunday, May 14: Morning concerts featuring Ryan La Valette, 11 a.m.; The Braxton Brothers, 12:30 p.m.; The Afternoon Chill: drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews, 3 p.m.; evening concerts featuring Greg Manning and Jeff Ryan, 8:45 p.m.; Grand Festival Finale, 10:15 p.m.; Farewell After-Show Chill, midnight

Venue: Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal

Getting there: Flights are available into the Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 28 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@smooth-entertainment.eu

JUNE 2-3

Clearwater Smooth Jazz Jam

Clearwater, Florida

Lineup:

Friday, June 2: Mindi Abair, Vanessa Williams, Boney James, doors open at 6 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 3: Jonathan Butler, David Sanborn and Marcus Miller, Brian Culbertson, doors open at 6 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m.

Venue: Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Tampa International Airport (TPA). Distance to the venue is approximately 6 miles from PIE and 14 miles from TPA.

Tickets and information: www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/ detail/clearwater-smooth-jazz-jam, 727-791-7400, 800-875-8682

continued on page 38

Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain

JUNE 7-11

Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway 10th Anniversary Napa, California

Lineup:

Wednesday, June 7: Welcome Dinner & Jam Session hosted by Brian Culbertson, featuring Eric Darius, Marcus Anderson, Kayla Waters, Marqueal Jordan and Patches Stewart, 7 p.m., Solera Courtyard, The Westin Verasa (sold-out)

Thursday, June 8: “Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by Michael Lington and Kayla Waters, plus DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash, 1:30 p.m., The Westin Verasa (sold-out); Concert at Silverado Resort featuring The Whispers and Eric Darius, gates open at 6 p.m. with DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash, concerts start at 7 p.m.

Friday, June 9: “Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by Marcus Anderson and Nicholas Cole, plus DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash, 1:30 p.m., The Westin Verasa (sold-out); Friday Night Funk Night at Silverado Resort featuring Culbertson with Marqueal Jordan and Marcus Anderson, Con Funk Shun, and comedian Jammin Jay Lamont, gates open at 6 p.m. with DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash, concerts start at 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 10: “Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by Jazmin Ghent and Althea Rene backed by DJs Rick & Russ, 1:30 p.m., The Westin Verasa (sold-out); Concert at Silverado Resort featuring Culbertson with special guests Noel Gourdin and others TBA, and Pieces of a Dream, gates open at 6 p.m. with DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash, concerts start at 7 p.m. (sold-out); After-Party, hang out with Culbertson and friends, 11 p.m., The Westin Verasa

Sunday, June 11: Sunday Brunch & Jam Session featuring Culbertson, Paul Jackson Jr. and Nicholas Cole, 11 a.m., The Westin Verasa (limited tickets remain)

Venues: Silverado Resort @ The Blue Note Napa Stage, 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa; The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St., Napa, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa (STS), Oakland International Airport (OAK), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Distance to The Westin is approximately 50 miles from STS, 51 miles from OAK, 57 miles from SFO and 64 miles from SMF.

Tickets and information: www.jazzgetaway.com

JUNE 9-11

Jazz Legacy Foundation Summer Jazz-2 Virginia Beach, Virginia

Lineup:

Friday, June 9: Cameo, Average White Band, The Original Lakeside, 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 10: Incognito with Maysa, Eric Benet, Norman Brown, Jeff Bradshaw and Eric Roberson, 6 p.m.

Sunday, June 11: Marcus Miller, Lalah Hathaway, Michael Lington and Paul Taylor, 3 p.m.

Venue: Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach, Virginia

Getting there: Flights are available into the Norfolk International Airport (ORF), approximately 17 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: https://jazzlegacyfoundation.org, 757-737-2416

continued from page 37

Napa, California

Brian Culbertson enjoying a glass of wine during his Napa Valley Jazz Getaway

Photo: Josh Adams

JUNE 24

Temecula Wine & Music Festival

Murrieta, California

Lineup:

Michael Paulo & Friends, Paul Brown, Steve Oliver, Kanzaki, Darryl Williams, Gregg Karukas, Frank McComb, Erin Stevenson and more, doors open at 2 p.m., music starts at 3 p.m., festival ends at 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Monteleone Meadows, 35245 Briggs Road, Murrieta, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the Ontario International Airport (ONT) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). Distance to the venue is approximately 50 miles from ONT and 70 miles from SAN.

Tickets and information: https://temeculawineandmusicfestival.com, 951-696-0184

JULY 12-16

13th Annual Lake

Arbor Jazz Festival

Mitchellville, Maryland

Lineup:

Wednesday, July 12: VIP Unplugged Kickoff

Reception featuring Mike Phillips and Phaze II, 6 p.m., Wellspring Manor & Spa

Thursday, July 13: Celebrity Golf Outing, Oak Creek Golf Club, 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start; Legacy Trail Wine Tour, 10 a.m., Two Lions Winery and Robin Hill Farm and Vineyards, departing from the MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino; Pre-Festival Concert featuring Najee, Frank McComb, Mo’Horns, Kevin Howard, doors open at 6 p.m., concert starts at 7 p.m., Center for Performing Arts

Friday, July 14: Meet & Greet Coffee & Brunch with Marcus Anderson, 10 a.m., Wellspring Manor & Spa; Summer White Affair featuring Pieces of a Dream, Mike Phillips, Karen Linette, Marcus Mitchell, Marcus Young, Kevin Howard, doors open at 6 p.m., concert starts at 7 p.m.; Summer White After-Party, 10 p.m., MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino

Saturday, July 15 (gates open at noon, concerts start at 1:30 p.m.): Hosted by Tony Richards, featuring WAR, The Blackbyrds, Jazmin Ghent, Kim Scott, Special Occasions, Rebecca Jade, Uncut (featuring Marcus Anderson, Lin Rountree, Nathan Mitchell, Nicholas Cole and Julian Vaughn), Lake Arbor Community Center; Meet & Greet: Cigars and Bourbon with Jeff Bradshaw, 10 p.m., MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino

Sunday, July 16: Sunday Jazz Brunch featuring Eric Roberson and Jeff Bradshaw, doors open at 11 a.m., brunch served at 11:30 a.m., and concert starts at 1 p.m.; All-Star Finale Jam hosted by Art Sherrod Jr., doors open at 7 p.m., concert starts at 7:30 p.m., MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino

JUNE 24-25

5th Annual San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival

San Diego, California

Lineup:

Hosted by Eric Darius with performances by RnR featuring Rick Braun and Richard Elliot; Michael Franks; Keiko Matsui; Jazz Funk Soul with Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and Paul Jackson Jr.; Rebecca Jade; and more to be announced

Venue: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, Embarcadero Marina Park South, 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the San Diego International Airport (SAN), approximately 4 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: http://sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com, 562-424-0013

Venues: Wellspring Manor & Spa, 11311 Drumsheugh Lane, Upper Marlboro; Oak Creek Golf Club, 600 Bowieville Manor Lane, Upper Marlboro; MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino, 101 MGM National Ave., Oxon Hill; Center for Performing Arts, Prince George’s Community College, 301 Largo Road, Largo; Lake Arbor Community Center, 10100 Lake Arbor Way, Mitchellville; MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino Grand Ballroom

Getting there: Flights are available into the Reagan National Airport (DCA), approximately 7 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.lakearborjazz.com

Monteleone Meadows

Venue for the Temecula Wine & Music Festival

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park Venue for the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival

Photos: Natasha Strombergs

continued from page 39

JULY 27-29

Marcus Anderson’s Jazz AND Coffee Escape

Durham, North Carolina

Lineup:

Thursday, July 27: Platinum patrons event featuring Jason Jackson and DJ

Friday, July 28: Glenn Jones, Oli Silk, Jeff Ryan and Althea Rene

Saturday, July 29: Marcus Anderson (and special guest Mr. Talkbox), Adam Hawley, Julian Vaughn, Nicholas Cole, Rebecca Jade and JJ Sansaverino

Venue: North Carolina Central University, Student Center and Event Hall, 500 Nelson St., Durham, North Carolina

Getting there: Flights are available into the Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), approximately 15 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.MAJACE.net

AUG. 22-27

AUG. 27

City of Gardena Jazz Festival

Gardena, California

Lineup: TBA

Venue: Rowley Park, 13220 S. Van Ness Ave., Gardena, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), approximately 7 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.gardenajazzfestival.com, 310-217-9537

WineandJazz.com presents Mindi Abair’s Bordeaux Wine & Jazz Adventure

Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion, France

An intimate, six-day, luxury group experience in one of the most famous wine regions while you indulge in the finest wine, music and food the world has to offer.

Lineup: Mindi Abair and soon-to-be-announced local jazz artists

Venues: Five-star hotel in downtown Bordeaux, fine-wine Châteaus, cultural locations and top restaurants throughout France

Getting there: Flights are available into the Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD).

Tickets and information: https://wineandjazz.com/adventures

Mindi Abair and her husband, Eric Guerra, during one of their WINEandJAZZ.com Adventures

Tuscany, Italy

Rioja, Spain

Mindi Abair hosts a variety of Wine + Jazz Adventures abroad and in the United States, which included a visit to the Marqués de Riscal Winery last year

Chicago, Illinois

SEPT. 9-10

16th Annual Dauphin County

Jazz & Wine Festival

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Lineup:

Saturday, Sept. 9: Urban Groove Collective, 4:30 p.m.; Nathan Mitchell, 6 p.m.; Marcus Anderson, Lin Rountree and Julian Vaughn, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 10: FAME Jazz Ensemble, 4:30 p.m.; Such, 6 p.m.; Vincent Ingala, 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Getting there: Flights are available into the Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), approximately 17 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.dauphincounty.gov, 717-599-5188

SEPT. 14-17

Brian Culbertson’s Chicago Jazz Getaway

Chicago, Illinois

Lineup:

Thursday, Sept. 14: Champagne reception and solo piano performance, 3:30 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park (VIP patrons only); Welcome Dinner & Jam Session featuring Brian Culbertson, Marqueal Jordan, Michael Lington,

Patches Stewart and more, 6 p.m., Buddy Guy’s Legends (VIP and Platinum patrons only)

Friday, Sept. 15: VIP and Platinum Party featuring Marqueal Jordan and Michael Manson, 1 p.m., The Art Institute Chicago; Brian Culbertson & Friends concert with Peter White and DW3, 7 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park; After-Party hosted by DJs Rick & Russ with CJ Flash (VIP, Platinum and Gold patrons only), 10 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park

Saturday, Sept. 16: Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River, 1 p.m. (VIP only); Exclusive Hang Club Meet & Greet, 4 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park; Brian Culbertson & Friends Concert featuring Gerald Albright, Alex Bugnon and Michael Lington, 7 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park; Artist Autograph Session, Late-Night Hang, Meet & Greet, 10:30 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park (VIP, Platinum and Gold patrons only)

Sunday, Sept. 17: Recording Session, watch Culbertson and his band record a song from scratch, lunch included, 1 p.m., The Jam Lab (VIP patrons only)

Venues: The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, 200 N. Columbus Dr.; Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S. Wabash; The Art Institute Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave.; The Jam Lab, 9234 W. 47th St., Brookfield.

Getting there: Flights are available into the Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), approximately 18 miles from The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park.

Tickets and information: www.chicagojazzgetaway.com

continued on page

Brian Culbertson at his 2021 Chicago Jazz Getaway

Photo: Amy Spangler

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Patron enjoying the Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival

Rancho Mirage, California

The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, venue for The Desert Jazz Festival

continued from page 41

SEPT. 28-OCT. 1

The Desert Jazz Festival hosted by Jonathan Butler Rancho Mirage, California

Lineup:

Thursday, Sept. 28: Welcome Event with Jonathan Butler and friends, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 29: Golf with Jonathan Butler, 8 a.m.; DJ at Las Hadas Pool, 11 a.m.; Vincent Ingala, 5:30 p.m.; Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; artist TBA, 7:40 p.m.; Jonathan Butler and Marcus Miller, 8:45 p.m.; Meet-and-Greet/autographs, 10 p.m.; All-Star Jam (limited seating), 10:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 30: DJ at Las Hadas Pool, 11 a.m.; special guest TBA, 5:30 p.m.; Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; special guest TBA, 8 p.m.; Candy Dulfer, 9 p.m.; Meet-and-Greet/autographs, 10:15 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 1: Gospel Hour with Jonathan Butler and Friends, 10:30 a.m.

Venue: The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) and Ontario International Airport (ONT). Distance to the venue is approximately 7 miles from PSP and 79 miles from ONT.

Tickets and information: https://desertjazzfestival.com, 707-546-1212

OCT. 6-8

Gulf Coast Jazz Festival: Fall Edition

Pensacola, Florida

Lineup:

Friday, Oct. 6 (doors open at 6 p.m.): All White and Black Kickoff Party featuring Adam Hawley, Cashmere Williams and Dominique Hammons, 7 p.m., Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 S. I St., Pensacola, Florida

Saturday, Oct. 7 (gates open at 12:30 p.m.): Jeff Lorber, 1:30 p.m.; Spyro Gyra, 2:35 p.m.; Mindi Abair, 3:55 p.m.; Lindsey Webster, 5 p.m.;

Gerald Albright, 6:30 p.m.; Pieces of a Dream, 8 p.m.; Norman Brown, 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 8 (gates open at 12:30 p.m.): Down to the Bone, 1:30 p.m.; Blake Aaron, 2:45 p.m.; Four80East, 4 p.m.; Brian Simpson, 5:15 p.m.; Althea Rene and Jeanette Harris, 6:30 p.m.; Steve Oliver, 7:45 p.m.; Eric Darius, 9 p.m.

Venue: Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St., Pensacola, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the Pensacola International Airport (PNS), approximately 7 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com, 850-393-3028

hosted by Jonathan Butler

Photo: Raj Naik

OCT. 12-15 AND 19-22

36th Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival

Avalon, California

Lineup:

Thursday, Oct. 12: Mindi Abair and opening act TBA, Unplugged Under the Stars at Descanso Beach

Friday, Oct. 13: Bob James and artist TBA

Saturday, Oct. 14: The Braxton Brothers, Ronnie Laws, Kayla Waters, Sergio Mendes; after-party at Descanso Beach, 10:30 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 15: Eric Darius, Kilauea, Boney James and more TBA

Thursday, Oct. 19: Rob Tardik and headliner TBA, Unplugged Under the Stars at Descanso Beach

Friday, Oct. 20: Jazz Holdouts and Keiko Matsui

Saturday, Oct. 21: Lemek and Quintin Gerard W., Acoustic Alchemy, Rebecca Jade and Jesse Cook; after-party at Descanso Beach, 10:30 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 22: Gerald Albright, Chris Walker’s Tribute to Al Jarreau featuring artists TBA, and more

Venues: Catalina Casino Ballroom, 1 Casino Way, Avalon, California; and Descanso Beach for Thursday Night Unplugged

Getting there: Catalina Express offers the most convenient choices of round-trip, cross-channel transportation from its terminals in Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point, California, to Avalon. Visit www.CatalinaExpress.com or call 800-995-4386. If flying into the Los Angeles-Orange County areas, flights are available into the Long Beach Airport (LGB), John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Distance to the Long Beach terminal is approximately 11 miles from LGB, 22 miles from LAX and 29 miles from SNA.

Tickets and information: www.jazztrax.com, 866-872-9849

OCT. 31-NOV. 5

10th Annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain

Lineup:

Kirk Whalum, Keiko Matsui, Shakatak, Steve Cole, Jackiem Joyner, John Stoddart, Rebecca Jade, Matt Marshak, Ilya Serov, Roberto Restuccia and more to be announced

Tuesday, Oct. 31: Art/Music/Dinner, exclusive concert and dinner, in the art gallery; Evening concert, on the open-air stage

Wednesday, Nov. 1: Morning boat trip with concert, outside of resort; Evening concerts, on the theatre stage; After-Show Party at the piano bar, midnight

Thursday, Nov. 2: Afternoon Chill featuring chilled drinks, loungy DJ grooves, artist interviews; Evening concerts, on the theatre stage; After-Show Party at the piano bar, midnight

Friday, Nov. 3: Afternoon Chill featuring chilled drinks, loungy DJ grooves, artist interviews; Evening concerts, on the theatre stage; After-Show Party at the piano bar, midnight

Saturday, Nov. 4: Morning concerts, on the open-air stage; Afternoon Chill featuring chilled drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews; Evening concerts, on the theatre stage; After-Show Party at the piano bar, midnight

Sunday, Nov. 5: Morning concerts, on the open-air stage; Afternoon Chill featuring chilled drinks, loungy DJ grooves and artist interviews; Evening concerts, on the open-air stage; After-Show Party at the piano bar, midnight

Venue: Protur Biomar Sensatori Resort, Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain

Getting there: Flights are available into the Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), approximately 45 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de, shop@smooth-entertainment.eu

continued on page 44

Photo: Pat Benter

Avalon, California Eric Darius performing in the Catalina Casino Ballroom during the 2022 Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival

continued from page 43

NOV. 2-5

The Florida Smooth Jazz Weekend hosted by Eric Darius Daytona Beach, Florida

Lineup:

Thursday, Nov. 2: JNL featuring Julian Vaughn, Nicholas Cole and Lin Rountree; Norman Brown; Sheila E.; and Thursday night Jam, doors open at 6:30 p.m., concerts begin at 7 p.m.; Artists’ Meet & Greet, 11:45 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 3: Optional golf outing and lunch with host Eric Darius, 8:30 a.m., at LPGA International, 1000 Champions Dr., Daytona Beach, Florida. Breakfast buffet, 8:30 a.m.; dinner, 5 p.m. Concerts featuring Marcus Anderson and Adam Hawley; Acoustic Alchemy; Eric Darius; and Friday night Jam, doors open at 6:30 p.m., concerts begin at 7 p.m.; Artists’ Meet & Greet, 11:45 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 4: Breakfast buffet, 8:30 a.m.; Afternoon concerts featuring Rick Braun; Peter White and Vincent Ingala, doors open at 11:30 a.m., concerts begin at noon; dinner, 5 p.m.; Concerts featuring Special EFX All-Stars with Chieli Minucci, Maysa, Eric Marienthal, Karen Briggs and Lao Tizer; Brian Culbertson; and Grand Finale Jam, doors open at 7 p.m., concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.; Artists’ Meet & Greet, 11:15 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 5: Sunday brunch with the artists, 8:30 a.m.; Artist Q&A panel with Rick Braun, Eric Darius, Marcus Anderson, Adam Hawley, Nicholas Cole, Lin Rountree, Vincent Ingala, Peter White, Chieli Minucci, Maysa and Eric Marienthal, 10:30 a.m.

Venue: Hilton Daytona Beach

Oceanfront Resort, 100 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), approximately 6 miles from the venue.

Packages and information: www.FloridaSmoothJazz.com, 386-681-7007

NOV. 8-12

Jazz Legacy Foundation 11th Annual Gala Weekend

Hampton, Virginia

Lineup:

Wednesday, Nov. 8: Official Pre-Party featuring Tom Browne and Bela Dona Band, 7 p.m., Roger Brown’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, Portsmouth, Virginia

Thursday, Nov. 9: Damien Escobar, Pieces of a Dream, Bob Baldwin, Ragan Whiteside, 6 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 10: Boney James, Jeffrey Osborne, Lindsey Webster, Brian Simpson, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 11: Smooth Jazz Lunch Cruise & Day Party featuring Jammin Jay Lamont, Forte Jazz Trio, DJ Heart Attack, 11 a.m., aboard the Spirit of Mount Vernon, board at Otter Berth, Norfolk; Saturday Night of Elegance featuring Sheila E., Will Downing, Jonathan Butler, Steve Cole, Christian de Mesones, 6 p.m., Hampton Roads Convention Center

Sunday, Nov. 12: Richard Elliot, Maysa, Howard Hewett, Michael Lington, Peter White, 3 p.m., Hampton Roads Convention Center

Venues: Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Dr., Hampton; Roger Brown’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, 316 High St., Portsmouth; Spirit of Mount Vernon, board at Otter Berth, 173 Waterside Dr., Norfolk

Getting there: Flights are available into the Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) and Norfolk International Airport (ORF). Distance to the main venue is approximately 10 miles from PHF and 18 miles from ORF.

Tickets and information: https://jazzlegacyfoundation.org, 757-737-2416

DEC. 4-10

Mexico Jazz Experience hosted by Eric Darius

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Lineup:

Monday, Dec. 4: Cocktail reception, Artist Meet-and-Greets

Tuesday, Dec. 5: Golf, All-Star Jam

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, the venue for the Mexico Jazz Experience hosted by Eric Darius

Photo: Patrick McKenzie

Wednesday, Dec. 6: David Sanborn, Spyro Gyra

Thursday, Dec. 7: Jazz Funk Soul featuring Jeff Lorber, Paul Jackson Jr. and Everette Harp; Michael Lington and Paul Taylor; Boney James

Friday, Dec. 8: Jeff Bradshaw, Najee, Gerald Albright, RnR with Richard Elliot and Rick Braun

Saturday, Dec. 9: Rebecca Jade, Brian Simpson, Jessy J and Jackiem Joyner, Marcus Anderson, Julian Vaughn and Adam Hawley, Eric Darius and Eric Roberson

Sunday, Dec. 10: Gospel Christmas according to Kirk Whalum (with all-star guests); Night shows featuring Norman Brown and Jeffrey Osborne

Venue: Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Getting there: Flights are available into the Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR), approximately 20 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information: https://mexicojazzexperience.com/, 602-244-8444

DEC. 30-31

Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Getaway

Orlando, Florida

Lineup:

Saturday, Dec. 30: Rick Braun, Boney James, Adam Hawley and Jazmin Ghent, concerts begin at 8 p.m. Optional Saturday morning golf tournament sponsored by Andy and Peggy Greenawalt, 8 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 31: Lindsey Webster, Peter White, Vincent Ingala, Rick Braun and Jazmin Ghent, concerts begin at 9 p.m. Dinner is served at 7 p.m.

Venue: Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the Orlando International Airport (MCO), approximately 12 miles from the venue.

Tickets and information : www.floridasmoothjazz.com, 386- 681-7007

~2024 FESTIVALS~

The French Quarter (VIP patrons only); Brian Culbertson & Friends Concert featuring Eric Darius, plus Rick Braun, 7 p.m., The Civic Theatre (VIP, Platinum and Gold patrons only); Late-Night Hang, 10:30 p.m., JW Marriott New Orleans (VIP and Platinum patrons only)

Saturday, March 16: Exclusive Hang Club Meet & Greet, 4 p.m., JW Marriott New Orleans; Brian Culbertson & Friends Concert, plus Spyro Gyra, 7 p.m., The Civic Theatre (VIP, Platinum and Gold patrons only); Late-Night Hang, 10:30 p.m., JW Marriott New Orleans (VIP and Platinum patrons only)

Sunday, March 17: Cajun cooking class with cocktails, featuring performances by Culbertson and Patches Stewart, 1 p.m., New Orleans School of Cooking (VIP patrons only)

Venues: JW Marriott New Orleans, 614 Canal St.; Preservation Hall in The French Quarter, 726 St. Peter St.; The Civic Theatre, 510 O’Keefe Ave.; New Orleans School of Cooking, 524 St. Louis St.

MARCH 14-17, 2024

Brian Culbertson’s New Orleans

Jazz Getaway

New Orleans, Louisiana

Lineup:

Thursday, March 14: Nola Cocktail Party with Brian Culbertson solo performance, 3:30 p.m. (VIP patrons only); Mardi Gras-themed Welcome Dinner & Jam Session featuring Culbertson, Eric Darius, Rebecca Jade, Marcus Anderson, Patches Stewart and the band, 6 p.m., JW Marriott New Orleans (VIP and Platinum patrons only)

Friday, March 15: VIP Concert Event & Jazz History with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, 1 p.m., Preservation Hall in

Getting there: Flights are available into the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), approximately 15 miles from the JW Marriott New Orleans.

Tickets and information: www.neworleansjazzgetaway.com

APRIL 5-14, 2024

33rd Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest

Reading, Pennsylvania

Lineup: to be announced

Venue: Various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania

Getting there: Flights are available into the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 70 miles from Berks County.

Tickets and information: www.berksjazzfest.com

Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Brian Culbertson’s New Orleans Jazz Getaway debuts in 2024

ADAM HAWLEY BONEY JAMES BRIAN SIMPSON

ERIC ROBERSON

EVERETTE HARP

DAVID SANBORN

GERALD ALBRIGHT

JEFF BRADSHAW

JEFFREY OSBORNE JACKIEM JOYNER

JESSY J LIAN VAUGHN

MARION MEADOWS

MARCUS ANDERSON

KIRK WHALUM

MICHAEL LINGTON

PAUL JACKSON JR PAUL TAYLOR

REBECCA JADE

RMAN BROWN RICHARD ELLIOT NAJEE

SPYRO GYRA

RICK BRAUN

JEFF LORBER

ERIC DARIUS